This Is What "Modern" Christmas Trees Looked Like in the 50s

Colorful is an understatement.

For most families, Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without the tree. But while this festive decoration has almost always been a holiday staple, the way in which it has been adorned has certainly changed from generation to generation.

And if you need any proof, we've pulled these 1950s gems out of our magazine archives to show you that we've come a long, long way.

The trees of yesteryear weren't always that traditional green color we tend to think of...

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Left: This little prince's pine tree was sprayed dark blue, trimmed with tiny birds and pompons of pink and silver tinsel, and topped with a tasseled ornament as its finial. It stands in a gilded tub. (December 1953)

Right: A delightful gold tree (gilded with laurel leaves on a wire frame) is trimmed with row on row of blazing-bright pink and red paper carnations. It stands in a green painted tub and is supported by a wooden pole. Looks especially attractive in an entry hall or beside a door. (December 1953)

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And some were shorter and jam-packed with mini decorations...

Left: One of the little trees that florists sell with stands already attached makes a delightful second spot of Christmas. Trim it with decorative dime-store gifts. (December 1955)

Right: Deck it imaginatively with ornaments from the sewing basket and use it in the entry, the bedroom, the children's room, or anywhere an extra bit of Christmas is welcome. (December 1955)

And others weren't even trees at all!

Left: If you haven't room for a real tree, make one of ornaments. Outline its shape with ropes of balls, frame it with greens, and spread the presents beneath. (December 1951)

Right: A rattan cone (it could also be of chicken wire) festooned with leaves and fruits makes for a bright tree for a modern room. (December 1955)